The surrendered Maoists claimed that older rebels were harassing them and using them as shields during encounters with security forces.

Six of the 12 Maoists were involved in various crimes including killings, landmine blasts, destruction of government buildings and arson, police said.

The others were militia committee members of the Communist Party of India-Maoist and involved in putting up posters, organising meetings and supplying food and other supplies to the rebels, police said.